What’s required for success as a coach depends largely on the kind of coaching you do. Many coaches just getting their start think of life coaching, business coaching, and executive coaching in the same breath. They shouldn’t.
Executive coaching is a distinct profession and while many of the core coaching skills are the same, executive coaches need to have a solid understanding of a number of additional disciplines including:
- Assessment and evidence-based coaching
- Leadership models and theory
- Management models and theory
- Emotional intelligence
- Communication styles and communication effectiveness
- Talent management
To really be effective at executive coaching, you’ll need to have a solid background in business, human resources (HR), organizational development (OD), leadership development, or other related fields. You’ll probably also need (eventually) a graduate degree and professional certification, although this will vary by specialty. For example, a close colleague of mine works with senior executives on improving their public speaking skills. This particular coach did his undergraduate work in theater at Julliard and had a long and successful career as an actor. Both things that make him credible as a public speaking coach.
If executive coaching interests you, there are a few coaching programs that may be just what you’re looking for including:
- Georgetown University which now offers a certification in Leadership Coaching through its Center for Continuing Education
- The Fielding Institute which offers a certificate in Evidence Based Coaching
The number is growing every day as the field of coaching enters more into the mainstream of business so check out offerings at a university near you to see what’s now available.
Credibility is much more important here than in any other kind of coaching
As you can probably imagine, unlike life or business coaching, advanced degrees (masters level or even PhD), ICF certification, and solid corporate or organizational experience go a long way to help build your career in executive coaching. If this is the sphere you want to play in, expect to begin a life-long process of learning, much of which may be done at institutions for higher learning.
A few associations to get you started
As you get your career started, it’s a good idea to join the professional associations most closely related to your field. In the case of executive coaching, be sure to become familiar with the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) and the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). Also, spend some time familiarizing yourself with the World Association of Business Coaches (WABC).
Lawrence Mortenson is a no-nonsense speaker, trainer, consultant, and coach. He helps executives, business owners, coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs grow profitable businesses through smart strategy, good management, and solid marketing.
Learn about Lawrence’s book for beginning coaches The Truth About the Business of Coaching (Tao of Business Press) or visit his website at http://www.lawrencemortenson.com
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